Surname MacKilloran - Meaning and Origin

MacKilloran: What does the surname MacKilloran mean?

The last name MacKilloran is a Scottish name which originated in the region of Argyll in western Scotland. It is derived from the Gaelic words mac meaning 'son of', and cill meaning 'church'. As such, MacKilloran translates roughly to 'son of the church', an indication of its religious roots in the region.

The MacKilloran name reflects a long and proud history in Scotland, with records indicating that the family were members of Scottish royalty centuries ago. The family is associated with the strong Clan MacLachlan, which is believed to have descended from the original MacKilloran family.

The MacKilloran family have a legacy which consists of many notable individuals. One of particular note was Colonel Malcolm MacKilloran, who served in the argyll and Sutherland Highlanders during WW1. He was awarded two medals for his bravery and gallantry, and his courage and strength remain an example to be celebrated.

The MacKilloran name is associated with strength, resilience and loyalty within Scotland. The family has remained dedicated to their religious roots in the region, and their unique heritage is one that is celebrated and respected to this day.

MacKilloran: Where does the name MacKilloran come from?

The last name MacKilloran is most commonly found in Scotland today. It is said to be of Scottish-Gaelic origin, deriving from the Old Gaelic name MacGillEathain, meaning "son of the servant of St. Anian".

The earliest recorded bearer of the MacKilloran name was Marjorie MacGillEathain, who was granted lands in the parish of Mochrum in Wigtownshire between 1380 and 1382. The MacKillorans were a sept of the Clan MacLellan and their main stronghold was at Bargaly Castle.

The majority of the MacKillorans have remained within Scotland's borders, many still living in their ancestral homelands of Dumfriesshire and Wigtownshire, as well as the still-thriving Clan MacLellan whose presence is felt throughout the Scottish Borders, Galloway, and Dumfries & Galloway.

The name is especially prevalent on the Isle of Bute, and many of the clansmen bear the MacKilloran tartan. The MacKilloran tartan is also seen on the Scottish official mountain rescue teams.

In addition to Scotland, MacKilloran families have also spread to England, Ireland, Canada, the United States, and Australia, making the name much more common abroad than within the United Kingdom.

Today, there is still a sense of camaraderie between those who can trace their roots back to the Clan MacLellan and Clan MacKilloran, descendants of the original Gaelic-speaking Gallowegians, and proud of their heritage.

Variations of the surname MacKilloran

MacKilloran is an Anglicized form of the Irish Gaelic surname Mac Giolla Ghormáin, which translates as “son of the servant of Saint Cormac”.

Variant spellings of this name include:

MacGilloran

MacGillorain

MacGilroy

MacGilrone

MacKilloran

MacKilloran

MacKillorn

MacKelloran

MacKillarane

MacKillarn

MacKillran

MacKolloran

MacKuloran

McGilmour

McGilvray

McGilvey

McKellaran

McKilloran

McKolloran

McKulorn

The MacKilloran surname is also connected to alternate surnames such as:

Ó Giolla Ghormáin

Ogilvie

Kellen

Gillen

Gorham

Goram

Gormley

The spelling of the MacKilloran surname has changed over time due to conflicts with the Anglicization process, especially in Scotland. Additionally, the spelling of the surname in both Ireland and Scotland has changed over time due to the different local dialects.

MacKilloran is a very common surname in Ireland and is frequently used as a first name. It is most common in Counties Mayo, Down and Galway in Ireland and is generally pronounced Mack-ill-OR-ahn.

Famous people with the name MacKilloran

• Philip MacKilloran: a famous composer who drew on traditional musical styles to create modern compositions.
• Anne MacKilloran: an actress best known for her appearances in the show "Chicago Fire" and the film "Lucky You".
• David MacKilloran: an acclaimed photographer known for his striking images of the natural beauty of Scotland.
• Moira MacKilloran: a Scottish traditional musician and folk singer who collaborated with many notable musicians.
• Stuart MacKilloran: a Scottish-born actor who is best known for his roles in "Braveheart" and the popular television series "Outlander".
• Gavin MacKilloran: a Scottish author and playwright who is known for his dramas about unconventional topics and social issues.
• Tom MacKilloran: an award-winning painter of landscapes and seascapes.
• Donald MacKilloran: a former British Olympian who competed in the 4x400 metres relay in the 1960 Summer Olympics.
• Claudio MacKilloran: the current chief executive officer of the Scottish Rugby Union.
• Gavin MacKilloran: an experienced baritone singer who has performed in venues across Europe.

Other surnames

MacKillopMacKilloughrey